Léon is a major city surrounded by a volcanic landscape. The Pacific Ocean is 18 kilometers (11.2 miles) to the east. Located in northwest Nicaragua, it is the capital of the department of the same name, Léon. Situated in the coastal lowlands, there are volcanoes surrounding it with the hills of the central highlands to the northeast. As of 2021, the population of the Léon municipality estimates to be near 212, 504 inhabitants.
Founded in 1524 by Franciso Hernádez de Cordoba, Léon is one of the oldest cities in the America’s. Yet, the original location did not last long. The city was originally named “Santiago de los Caballeros de Léon. Which translates to “Santiago of the Men of Léon,” after the Spanish city of Léon.
Léon Viejo: A UNESCO Site
It was eventually abandoned in 1610. The explosive eruption of Momotombo caused a series of earthquakes that rocked the region. The Spanish moved the entire city 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northeast to today’s location. The move included the saints from the churches and some of the dead from the cemetery. Today, the ruins of that city are one of Nicaragua’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In 1812, during the Spanish colonial period, the city established the second oldest university in Central America, the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua. It was the final university established on the continent of America.
Léon has been the capital since colonial times. In 1839, Nicaragua withdrew from the United Provinces of Central America. Thus, becoming the capital of the new nation. For years, the capital shifted between Léon and Granada.
Liberal administrations preferred Léon, while Conservative administrations preferred the latter. After a short civil war, both sides agreed upon Managua as a compromise, for the new location of the capital.
Léon is a city that has been consistently terrorized by civil unrest, and wars, throughout history. For example, during the 1979 revolution, the Sandinistas took over the city through violent street fighting.
The government lost control of the city. So, dictator Somoza responded by bombing it. Causing both civilian and soldier causalities alike. Bullet marks are still present on some of the buildings. The bombed-out San Sebastián church is only three blocks south of the cathedral.
The most recent civil unrest came in April of 2018. Protests broke out against changes to the social security system. The Ortega government took steps to repress the protests. This caused the protests to spread throughout the country.
The dictator responded with violence, killing many protesters. This left the economy depressed. Tourism took a big hit, although Léon was still popular among the backpacking community. Shortly thereafter, the COVID pandemic emerged and hit the community even harder.
Léon is both the political and educational center of Nicaragua. It’s renowned for its universities, old churches, and fine museums. It’s also known for its revolutionary history and rich student life. The university town has fewer tourists than its southern sister city, Granada.
The city is also an important industrial, agricultural, and commercial center for Nicaragua. The city is a major exporter of cattle, peanuts, plantains, sorghum, and sugar cane.
Climate
One thing to know before visiting is that Léon is hot. This tropical city experiences little fluctuation in temperature. It is one of the hottest cities in Central America. The average temperature is 27°C (80.6°F).
Yet, Léon experiences daily spikes, during the summer, that can reach as high as 38°C (101°F). This might seem like a reasonable heat until factoring in humidity. The average relative humidity is 84% and can make the temperature feel much higher.
Things To Do
There is plenty to do in Léon that’ll keep almost any traveler occupied. The main attraction is the city itself, with its plethora of colonial houses and churches. Take a free walking tour or get lost on a hike around the city. Go shopping, take pictures, explore one of the many museums, or disappear to a beach on the Pacific coast.
If those aren’t adventurous enough, then don’t worry. There are plenty of adventure activities too. Go for a hike, climb a volcano, or like most backpackers that come to Léon, go volcano boarding! Click here to read about my volcano boarding experience.
Go Volcano Boarding
Most people go with the tour from Bigfoot Hostel. Yet, I would recommend going with the tour from Via Via Hostel. The tour from Via Via is with a company called Volcano Day. Volcano Day is the only tour company in Léon that is 100% locally owned and run.
The price is $30. This includes a t-shirt, transportation, entrance fee, tour guides, snacks, protective gear, and the board. Upon return, you’ll get a free beer or nonalcoholic soda. They’ll also provide a link to photos of the excursion for your downloading pleasure. Sign up with your hostel. Find the right budget accommodation with Hostelworld or find more lavish options through Booking.
Léon’s UNESCO Cathedral
While exploring Léon, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Cathedral. This Cathedral is Nicaragua’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both sites are accessible from the city. The Cathedral is Central America‘s largest. Also, it is the final resting place of several notable Nicaraguans.
For a small fee of 105 Cordoba’s (roughly $3 USD), climb the stairs to the roof. Where there’s a magnificent view of Léon’s churches, the city, and the surrounding volcanoes. I’ll be doing a complete article on both UNESCO Sites accessible from Léon, in the coming days.
My Experience & Final Thoughts
I loved my time in Léon and could have spent more than the four nights I stayed. There was plenty to keep me busy, with delicious food and friendly people. I found myself taking a daily walk and exploring different parts of the city. Once I visited the sites I’d come to explore, I knew it was time to move on.
It’s not the biggest bucket list destination, but it’s a good one all the same. It’s a great place to make as a base of operations while exploring the volcanic coastal region of Nicaragua.
This destination is perfect for both families and backpackers alike. I hope that Nicaragua can figure out its political turmoil. This could make it an even better destination to visit for the curious adventure traveler. If it’s a place you want to visit, then now is the time. If not now, when?
Quick Notes:
- Léon Cathedral is free to visit.
- Climb the Cathedral roof: 105 Cordoba (roughly $3 USD)
- Go Volcano boarding with Volcano Day @ Via Via Hostel for $30 USD.
